Dienhart writes: "The schedule is pretty kind to a Michigan State program coming off a disappointing 7-6 season that saw MSU lose five games by a combined 13 points. If the Spartans can win at Notre Dame on Sept. 21, they could be 8-0 when they welcome Michigan on Nov. 2.''

Michigan State gets a week off after playing the Irish in South Bend before opening against its Big Ten schedule, which is:

Oct. 5 at Iowa (No. 70)

Oct. 12 Indiana (No. 76)

Oct. 19 Purdue (No. 71)

Oct. 26 at Illinois (No. 126)

Nov. 2 Michigan (No. 20)

Nov. 16 at Nebraska (No. 22)

Nov. 23 at Northwestern (No. 21)

Nov. 30 Minnesota (No. 68)

It's hard to argue with Diehart's conclusion that Notre Dame is the Spartans' toughest road game.

As for the toughest Big Ten game, there's plenty of room for debate. Dienhart hedges between the home game with the Wolverines and the road trip to play the Cornhuskers; it would be a good thing for Michigan State if there was still much on the line when the Spartans play at Northwestern on Nov. 23.